A teenage girl has been found dead with serious injuries after a "truly awful" attack at a park in Cheshire.
Sixteen-year-old Brianna Ghey from Birchwood in Warrington was found on a path in Linear Park, Culcheth by members of the public at 3.13pm yesterday.
Police have launched an appeal for information in finding a white man and woman in their late teens or early twenties, both with dark curly hair, who were seen in the park where the girl’s body was found.
Emergency services attended yesterday but the Brianna was pronounced dead at the scene.
The park has been sealed off while police investigate
Peter Powell
Detective Chief Supt Mike Evans said: “This is a truly awful attack on a 16-year-old girl, who has sadly lost her very short life.
“We are appealing for any information that will help us find who has done this to Brianna.”
Detective Chief Inspector Adam Waller added: “I understand the concerns that this incident is likely to cause, and I am aware that there are rumours circulating online, however, I would urge people not to speculate.
“We are following numerous lines of inquiry to establish what led to the victim’s death, and local residents will see an increased presence of police officers in the area while we investigate this incident.
“At this stage we do not believe there is a wider threat to anyone else, however if you have concerns please do speak to a local officer.
“As part of our investigation, I am keen to hear from anyone who believes they may have witnessed the incident or seen anything unusual in Culcheth Linear Park at around 3pm.
“The same goes for anyone with any CCTV or dashcam footage which may aid our investigation.
“I urge anyone with any information, no matter how small, to get in touch.”
Police were called to the park at 3.13pm yesterday afternoon
Peter Powell
The girl was sadly pronounced dead at the scene
Peter Powell
A crime scene has been imposed around the park as detectives investigate.
Local MP Charlotte Nichols said she was in contact with the police following the "tragic death" and urged anyone who may have information to come forwards.
Anyone with information should contact police via the Cheshire Constabulary website or by calling 101, quoting IML 1476832.
Information can also be reported anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Brianna Ghey from Birchwood in Warrington was found on a path in Linear Park
Family handout/Warrington Police